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Balance of Trade is a book set in Sharon and Steve's Liaden Universe, but
the storyline seem to run almost asynchronous with the rest of the series. This novel
would actually be a good introduction to the series if you haven't read any of them yet.
It displays many of the elements that make this series of novels more and more
popular. The Liaden culture starts off fairly simple. As the novel progresses and
the plot gets more and more convoluted (and intense), more and more of that culture
is revealed to the reader.
This series of books has always had a very attractive mixture of intellectual
curiosity and physical action. This one is no exception. The only thing missing from
the mix is the romantic element that plays such a large part of the novels about
Val Con and Miri.
The intrigue is compelling. The feelings that the characters have for each other
make them seem like family -- like people you know and care about. Above all, Sharon Lee
and Steve Miller always seem to have one more surprise waiting in the wings.
Your local book store likely won't have this one, but its well worth ordering
from Barnes & Nobel or Amazon to get it. One you try one of these, you'll become
addicted to the Liaden Universe!
'Til Next Month,
Happy Reading
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